Dr. Ousmane Bougoum, President of Burkina Faso's Legislative Assembly, visited the 18th International Salon of Artisanal Crafts in Ouagadougou (SIAO) on November 4, 2026. He toured various exhibition spaces, including 17 stands representing different regions of Burkina Faso. The stands showcased the skills and ingenuity of local artisans. Dr. Bougoum also visited the "Thomas Sankara" creativity pavilion, where he appreciated the creative works on display.
During his visit, Dr. Bougoum expressed his admiration for the creativity of African artisans, particularly those from Burkina Faso. He encouraged them to continue producing high-quality works that reflect their skills and ingenuity. The Legislative Assembly President also visited the "Koulouba" stand of the Presidency of Faso, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) village, and the Ghanaian village, which was the guest of honor at the 18th SIAO edition.
Dr. Bougoum stated that his presence at SIAO aimed to encourage African artisans, especially those from Burkina Faso. He praised the quality of works on display, which he said demonstrated the creative genius of local artisans. The Legislative Assembly President also commented on the theme of the 18th edition: "African Artisanal Crafts and Industrialization: What Synergy for Better Organization and Valorization of Local Products as Cultural Heritage?"
Dr. Bougoum considered the theme relevant, given Burkina Faso's ambitions for economic sovereignty. He emphasized that economic sovereignty can only be achieved through industrialization, which requires organization and structuring of various sectors, including artisanal crafts. The artisanal sector is a significant part of Burkina Faso's economy, employing many people and generating substantial resources.
As part of the 18th SIAO edition, the Legislative Assembly will award two special prizes. The first prize, named "Thomas Sankara Prize for Creativity," aims to reward artisans' ingenuity and innovation. The second prize, the "Regions Prize," seeks to encourage and value the creativity of artisans from different regions of Burkina Faso.
Each of the two special prizes has three distinctions, with a total of six laureates. The winners of the first prize in each category will receive 1,500,000 FCFA, while the second and third prize winners will receive 1,000,000 FCFA and 750,000 FCFA or 500,000 FCFA, respectively. Dr. Bougoum emphasized that these prizes aim to promote and support Burkinabe artisans.
The 18th SIAO edition brings together artisans from various regions of Burkina Faso and other countries, showcasing their creative works and promoting African cultural heritage. Dr. Ousmane Bougoum's visit highlights the importance of artisanal crafts in Burkina Faso's economy and culture. The event encourages artisans to continue producing high-quality works that reflect their skills and creativity.
Key points
- Dr. Ousmane Bougoum visits 18th SIAO exhibition to encourage Burkinabe artisans.
- The Legislative Assembly awards two special prizes to promote artisans' creativity and innovation.
- The 18th SIAO edition promotes African cultural heritage and artisanal crafts.
